Brett Gardner Jersey Retirement

New York Yankees left fielder Brett Gardner visited the Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George on Thursday night as the Staten Island Yankees granted him the highest honor, and retired his jersey. He was accompanied by his wife, Jessica. Never again will a member of the Staten Island Yankees wear Gardner's number 6, which he donned with the Baby Bombers during the 2005 Championship Season.

During that summer, Gardner, a then 21-year old rookie, made his way to Staten Island to begin his professional career. His slap-stick style and blazing speed made him a top competitor in the New York-Penn League. He finished the season 2nd in runs (62), and 5th in stolen bases (19), while batting .284 with 80 hits in 73 games played. He also had the only inside-the-park home run in the team's history.

Despite his rather small stature, Gardner scratched and clawed his way to the Major Leagues. He debuted in 2008, when he was called up by the New York Yankees to face the Texas Rangers. Now, the everyday Left Fielder for the New York Yankees (despite his current injury), he has excellent plate discipline, and his speed continues to excel his game, both on the base paths and in the field.

On Thursday evening, the number six sign was unveiled to a round of applause by the fans in attendance. Gardner then addressed the crowd, thanking them for their warm reception and explained that he couldn't believe it has been seven years since he played here in Staten Island. He spoke about how his time in Staten Island helped propel him to the Bronx.

Gardner is currently nursing an elbow injury but was in very good spirits and was happy to be back in the ballpark where it all started. The Staten Island Yankees couldn't be happier to commemorate his accomplishments.